Amino Acids

Scientists discovered a gut-brain circuit that signals the brain to prioritize protein over sugar when amino acids are low, potentially reshaping understanding of appetite, nutrition, and obesity.

Scientists have discovered a hidden chemical signature that could reveal alien life by looking for patterns in the organization of molecules. This signature is found in the statistical distribution of amino acids and fatty acids and consistently differs from nonliving chemistry. The discovery provides a new way to hunt for alien life.

Researchers from Columbia and Harvard engineered a portion of the ribosome to function without the essential amino acid isoleucine, aiming to test hypotheses about the evolution of the genetic code. The study explores whether life's universal genetic code, which encodes 20 amino acids, originally used fewer, potentially shedding light on early life's development.

Injectable peptides are gaining popularity among health-conscious Americans, driven in part by promotion from the nation’s top health official. However, regulatory oversight and public understanding of these products remain inadequate, raising concerns about their safety and legal status.

Scientists have engineered bacteria to function with 19 amino acids instead of the usual 20, using AI-guided redesign of their protein alphabet. This breakthrough could enable new methods for creating synthetic organisms.

Adding three common amino acids to lipid nanoparticles can enhance mRNA delivery by 20-fold and CRISPR editing efficiency near 90%, improving treatment outcomes. The method focuses on improving cellular uptake rather than altering the drug itself, offering a potential breakthrough for gene therapies.